Vijana Jazz


Vijana Jazz Orchestra is a Tanzanian muziki wa dansi band that reached its peak of popularity in the 1980s. As with many other dansi bands of the times, it was sponsored by a government institution, namely the Umoja wa Vijana, i.e., the youth wing of Tanzania's ruling party Tanganyika African National Union .

History

The band was founded in 1971 by John Ondoro Chacha. In 1978, the Tanzanian government passed a law that allowed bands to purchase foreign instruments. Vijana Jazz was one of the first bands to take on this opportunity, and in the 1980s it became extremely popular because of its innovative sound that made use of synthesizers and drum machines.
Popular mitindo created by Vijana Jazz include sindimba, heka heka, koka koka, watoto wa nyumbani and pamba moto. Some of the most notable musicians that have played in Vijana Jazz are Hamza Kalala, Hemedi Maneti, Issa Chikupele and Manitu Musa.
The band declined in popularity in the early 1990s, partly as a consequence of its leader's sudden death.

Partial discography

Note: Vijana Jazz records were published by a variety of labels, including at least Africa79, Ahadi, Ken-Tanza, Moto Moto, and Polydor.Mary Maria MotoMundinde
  • Hayati Hemed Maneti and Vijana Jazz, MakumbushoBest of Vijana Jazz vol. 1Best of Vijana Jazz vol. 2Best of Vijana Jazz vol. 3Best of Vijana Jazz vol. 4Hayati Maneti Last Recording
Several muziki wa dansi collections include songs by Vijana Jazz. Some examples are:Swahili Hits, 1985Swahili Hits vol. 3Swahili Hits vol. 4Tanzania Hit ParadeTanzania Hit Parade vol. 2Tanzania Hit Parade vol. 3Tanzania Hit Parade 1988